Category Archives: Youths

Bad Christian Friends: 20 Ways to Identify Toxic Friendship!

Posted by Jul 28, 2025 Holy Word, Youths 2 Comments
Bad Christian Friends: 20 Ways to Identify Toxic Friendship!

Bad Christian friends are brilliant, educated people majorly amid the youths. The current secret plan of the Devil will be revealed in today’s message.

The mission of the bad Christian friends is to deceive you that the salvation through Jesus Christ was a scam. Their intention is to use the erroneous doctrines in churches and cite many scandals committed by pastors as evidence for their anti-Christ claims.

Do you remember I told you that we have many false and selfish pastors and prophets in Christendom today who worship money and things of this world? Many church leaders had fallen into this trap many centuries ago, so the Devil’s plan is heating up very fast to convince us that we neither need the Bible nor the message of Jesus Christ anymore!

You must be very careful not to be deceived by bad Christian friends and don’t be carried away by the new technology of artificial intelligence which can make you easily forget the need to be in a relationship with the Almighty God. Be watchful! Not all pastors and church members are genuine Christians.

20 Ways to Identify Bad Christian Friends

1. Toxic Friends Gossip and Slander 

They talk ill about you behind your back but speak well in your presence. “A perverse man sows strife, and a whisperer separates the best of friends.” (Proverbs 16:28)

2. They Constantly Criticize You, Not Correct in Love

Criticism without grace tears down instead of building up your spiritual growth.

3. Bad Christian Friends Lead You into Sin

They would support your excuse to compromise spiritually. “Do not be deceived: “Evil company corrupts good habits.” (First Corinthians 15:33)

4. They’re Jealous and Competitive

“For where envy and self-seeking exist, confusion and every evil thing are there.” (James 3:16)

5. Deceitful Christian Friends are Hypocritical

Bad Christian friends speak holy to you but live differently!

Jesus speak about bad friends in the book of Matthew chapter 23 verse 27: “Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you are like whitewashed tombs which indeed appear beautiful outwardly but inside are full of dead men’s bones and all uncleanness.”

6. They Encourage Division

Manifestation of bad Christian friendship is one of the causes of denomination in the Christendom!

7. Insincere Friends Never Apologize or Accept Correction

“Whoever loves instruction loves knowledge, but he who hates correction is stupid.” (Proverbs 12:1)

8. They Mock or Dismiss Your Faith Journey

Stay away from friends that encourage you to water down your spiritual eagerness to the LORD.

9. Bad Christian Friends Drain You Spiritually Instead of Lifting You Up

“He who walks with wise men will be wise, But the companion of fools will be destroyed.” (Proverbs 13:20)

10. They are Always Negative or Bitter

11. They Make You Feel Guilty for Seeking God

Bad Christian friends can give you the impression that your sins before you born again are currently stopping God from answering your prayers.

12. Prideful Friends Boast About Their Good Works

13. They Use Scripture to Manipulate

Bad Christian friends twist the word of God to suit their selfish desires.

14. Fake Christian Friends Resist Accountability

They disappear when you have a difficult challenge.

15. They are Easily Offended and Unforgiving.

16. Hypocrite Christian Friends are More Concerned with Being Liked Than Being Godly.

17. Bad Friends Reject Wise Counsel and Biblical Advice

They only hear what they want and claim they are not under any law.

18. They Live Comfortably in Sin Without Repentance

Bad Christian friends embrace the false doctrine of eternal security – once saved forever saved, and they live a careless life deceiving you that no matter your repeated sins as a Christian you will still gain heaven.

19. Unreal Christian Friends Do Not Reflect the Fruit of the Spirit

20. They Don’t Point You to Christ

In every discussion you have with bad Christian friends, they lure you to practice things of the world.

The influence of bad Christian friends can be felt in the church today because many things we do in the church today are worldly practices that cannot be found in the commandments of Jesus Christ.

But as the Bible warns, “guard your heart” (Proverbs 4:23) and “test every spirit” (1 John 4:1). You deserve true Christian friends who reflect the grace, truth, and integrity of Christ.

20 Ways to Know True Christian Friends!

Posted by Jul 16, 2025 Holy Word, Youths Leave a Comment
20 Ways to Know True Christian Friends!

True Christian friends are scarce in our generation but that does not mean you should be in isolation. I suffered so much in the hands of pretenders who claimed to be friends but now I am free, and I know the truth.

Are you going through disappointment or you find it difficult to distinguish true Christian friends? Today’s message will enlighten you and give a clear reflection of true Christian friendship which reflects the love, character, and humility of Jesus Christ.

20 Character of True Christian Friends!

✝️ 1. They Prioritize Jesus Christ Above All

You’ll see that Jesus Christ is not just part of their life; He is the center of it.

“This is My commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you.” (John 15:12)

🕊️ 2. They Pray with You and For You

Prayer isn’t a formality—it’s a way they love you.

📖 3. They Know and Love God’s Word

Their advice and comfort flow from the Scriptures.

🤝 4. They Encourage Spiritual Growth

They challenge you to grow in faith, character, and purpose.

🙌 5. They Celebrate Your Victories Without Envy

No competition. They rejoice with you genuinely.

“Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their labor. For if they fall, one will lift his companion…” (Ecclesiastes 4:9-10)

❤️ 6. They Stick Around in Tough Seasons

Like Jesus, they don’t walk away when life gets messy.

“A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.” (Proverbs 17:17)

🎯 7. They Lovingly Speak Truth

They won’t flatter or hide the truth just to keep peace.

🌿 8. They Bear Fruit

Look for love, joy, peace, patience—signs of the Spirit at work.

💬 9. They Use Words Wisely

They speak about life, not gossip, sarcasm, or discouragement.

🛐 10. They Value Fellowship

They’re intentional about godly community, not just casual hangouts.

✨ 11. They Forgive and Seek Forgiveness

No festering grudges—just grace that restores.

“…bearing with one another, and forgiving one another, if anyone has a complaint against another; even as Christ forgave you, so you also must do.” (Colossians 3:13)

🔥 12. They Don’t Lead You into Temptation

They protect your spiritual integrity, not threaten it.

🕊️ 13. They Help You Pursue Peace

They avoid drama and push for reconciliation.

👀 14. They Guard Your Secrets

You trust them because they honor your vulnerability.

🛡️ 15. They Defend You Spiritually

They’ll stand with you in prayer and battle when your faith feels weak.

“As iron sharpens iron, so a man sharpens the countenance of his friend.” (Proverbs 27:17)

📣 16. They’re Not Ashamed of the Gospel

Their faith is public, not performative—but courageous.

🤗 17. They Don’t Judge Your Past

Like Christ, they see the redeemed you, not the broken you.

“Ointment and perfume delight the heart, and the sweetness of a man’s friend gives delight by hearty counsel.” (Proverbs 27:9)

🧭 18. They Live with Integrity

Their life off the stage is the same as on it.

🕯️ 19. They Shine the Light in Darkness

They bring Jesus into every situation—even the uncomfortable ones.

“Therefore comfort each other and edify one another, just as you also are doing.” (First Thessalonians 5:11)

👣 20. They Walk with You, Not Ahead of You

They don’t rush you. They journey with you. Step by step, side by side.

“A man who has friends must himself be friendly, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.” (Proverbs 18:24)

 

Search for the attributes above from your friends and screen them accordingly but don’t forget that the best friend to have is the spiritual friend called Jesus Christ.

Greed Among Christians? 10 Ways to Overcome Avarice!

Posted by Jun 5, 2025 Holy Word, Youths Leave a Comment
Greed Among Christians? 10 Ways to Overcome Avarice!

There is just a thin line between greed and ambition to have abundance such that if Christians are not careful, they can easily fall into the other side of selfish desires! 

Will you like to know if you have not swung to the other side greed unknowingly? Today’s message will explain some indications to watch out for and how to pull out of the trap. I was once a victim but now I am free!

Jesus Christ warned in the book of Luke chapter 12 verse 15: “…Take heed and beware of covetousness, for one’s life does not consist in the abundance of the things he possesses.”

“For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul?” (Mark 8:36)

10 Dangerous Signs of Greed You Must Avoid

1. Lack of Generosity and Compassion

2. Pursuit of riches becomes an obsession

3. Exploiting others for personal gain; common among many false prophets and pastors of our generation.

4. Greedy individuals compare themselves with others and desire what others have.

5. Avarice can drive individuals to lie, cheat, and manipulate circumstances for personal benefit.

6. Greedy people sacrifice everything including health, relationships and integrity, just to gain more.

7. Those entangled in greed often neglect family and friends, placing financial gain above meaningful connections.

8. Greedy people focus entirely on earthly riches while neglecting their spiritual well-being.

9. Greed won’t allow you to be involved in evangelism which involves sharing your wealth with the poor.

10. A greedy person only has selfish love and does not love others.

10 Disastrous Effects of Greed

1. Separation from God

Greed turns your heart away from God and replaces Him with material desires.

2. Spiritual Blindness

It distorts your values, making worldly riches seem more important than eternal life.

3. Loss of Contentment and Peaceful mind

Greedy individuals often experience inner turmoil because they are never satisfied.

4. Dishonesty and Corruption

Avarice leads people to engage in dishonest behaviour to gain more wealth.

5. Obsession with Wealth Over Righteousness

A greedy heart prioritizes material success over godly living.

6. Neglect of Needy

Greed can make you selfish, causing you to ignore the needs of the poor.

7. Idolatry and Rebellion Against God

Greediness is the form of idolatry, replacing God with earthly possessions.

8. Harm to Relationships

It causes conflict, envy, and betrayal among friends, families, church and communities.

9. Loss of Eternal Rewards

Greedy Christians may gain wealth but lose their heavenly inheritance. (Mark 8:36)

10. Judgment and Destruction

The book of Proverbs chapter 15 verse 27 says: “He who is greedy for gain troubles his own house, but he who hates bribes will live.”

10 Smart Ways to Overcome Greed

Many years ago, greed made me lose huge sum of money and nearly commit suicide, but steps below saved me.

1. Recognize Greed as a Sin

The Bible warns against greed as a form of idolatry. Acknowledging its destructive nature is the first step to overcoming it.

Colossians chapter 3 verse 5: “Put to death, therefore, whatever belongs to your earthly nature: sexual immorality, impurity, lust, evil desires, and greed, which is idolatry.”

2. Cultivate Contentment

Contentment is a safeguard against greed. Trusting in God’s provision prevents you from the desire for excessive wealth.

First Timothy chapter 6 verses 6 and 7 – “But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it.”

3. Practice Generosity

Giving to others breaks the hold of greed and reflects God’s nature.

Acts chapter 20 verse 35: “It is more blessed to give than to receive.”

4. Trust in God’s Provision

Instead of hoarding, trust that God will meet your needs.

Matthew chapter 6 verse 31 to 33: “Do not worry… But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.”

5. Focus on Eternal Treasures

Don’t lose guard because spirit of greed can tempt you to prioritize earthly wealth over eternal rewards.

Matthew chapter 6 verse 19 and 20: “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth… But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven.”

6. Avoid Covetousness

Desiring what others have can lead you to discontentment and avarice.

Exodus chapter 20 verse 17: “You shall not covet your neighbor’s house. You shall not covet your neighbor’s wife… or anything that belongs to your neighbor.”

7. Work Diligently and Ethically

Honest labor provides for needs without resorting to selfish gain.

Proverbs chapter 13 verse 11: “Dishonest money dwindles away, but whoever gathers money little by little makes it grow.”

8. Rejecting the Love of Money

Money is not evil but loving it more than God leads to destruction.

First Timothy chapter 6 verse 10: “For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil.”

9. Be Humble and Serve Others

Pride and greed often go hand in hand. Humility shifts the focus from self to serving others.

Philippians chapter 2 verses 3 and 4: “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves.”

10. Meditate on God’s Word

Feeding your spirit with scriptures transforms the heart and diminishes worldly cravings.

Psalm 119 verse 11: “I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you.”

I implore you to follow the powerful steps above if you notice that your speed to attain abundance is pushing you beyond the thin line that separates contentment from greed.

Greed is a subtle but destructive force that can pull you away from God’s will. The key to overcoming it is to cultivate generosity, humility, and a heart focused on eternal treasures rather than temporary wealth.

Is Smoking a Sinful Habit for Christians?

Posted by Dec 12, 2023 Holy Word, Youths Leave a Comment
Is Smoking a Sinful Habit for Christians?

Smoking becomes a sinful habit for the Christians when the outcome of the action does not portray righteousness and holiness.

I was tempted by my friends during high school to join in smoking cigarettes. Teenagers are the most sensitive to the mess of smoking.

Today’s message will explain the meaning of sin and the significance of smoking for Christians.

The printed bible we read does not contain all events as mentioned in John chapter 21 verse 25. So, it is dangerous for you to say you will do things not mentioned in the bible.

Sin is simply defined as a wrong action that is not pleasing to the LORD and not beneficial to humanity. If a wrong action is not specifically mentioned in GOD’s commandments in the bible, then does it translate to righteousness?

As we move from generation-to-generation new ‘advance’ sins spring up in our midst which are acceptable by the society, thus such sins won’t appear in the Bible, but the Holy Spirit is here to tell you how wrong they are.

Origin of Smoking

I read on the Wikipedia that the history of tobacco dates to as early as 5000–3000 BC, cultivated in Mesoamerica and South America; consumption later evolved into burning the plant substance.

The practice turned into shamanistic rituals. Ancient civilizations – such as the Babylonians, the Indians, and the Chinese – burnt incense during religious rituals.

Smoking in the Americas had its origins in the incense-burning ceremonies of shamans but was later adopted for pleasure.

Statistics of Smoking

It is in the news that with 1.3 billion smokers in the world nearly 5 trillion cigarettes are consumed each year, contributing to more than 8 million deaths and nearly US $2 trillion in economic damage. And it is pathetic that smoking among young teens ages 13-15 has increased in 63 countries.

Benefits of Smoking

1. The smoking of tobacco and various hallucinogenic drugs was used to achieve trances and to encounter the spirit world.

2. Earlier, the Eastern North American tribes often smoked tobacco in ceremonial pipes, either in sacred ceremonies or to seal bargains.

3. The combination of tobacco plants to other herbs is used for medicine, but smoking has become a social event to derive pleasure.

The benefits of smoking mentioned above by the smokers are occult and harmful to Christians.

Effects of Smoking to the Body

The deadly effect of smoking erodes the idolatry and pleasure derived from smoking:

1. Smoking is a major risk factor for heart attacks, strokes, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

2. Causes several types and subtypes of cancers (particularly lung cancer, cancers of the oropharynx, mouth cancer etc.).

3. Tobacco smoking is the leading cause of preventable death.

4. It causes diabetes.

5. Smoking also increases the risk of tuberculosis, certain eye diseases, and problems with the immune system, including rheumatoid arthritis.

God’s View About Smoking

1. The origin of smoking was for idolatry purposes. GOD detests idolatry.

“You shall not worship the LORD your God in that way; for every abomination to the LORD which He hates they have done to their gods; for they burn even their sons and daughters in the fire to their gods.” (Deuteronomy 12:31)

2. Smoking is a social event for deriving pleasure. It does not correlate with the kind of pleasure the LORD wants for us.

“Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom, teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.” (Colossians 3:16)

3. The medicinal abuse of the tobacco plant is synonymous with the abuse of alcohol too.

4. The terrible side effects of smoking on your body will never be a joy to the LORD who created you.

“I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service.” (Romans 12:1)

5. Smoking invites demons into you while it chases away the Spirit of GOD.

7 Powerful Ways to Stop Smoking

1. Do not imitate pastors who smoke because the LORD told me that anointing is different from salvation.

2. Surrender your entire life to the LORD and be ready for godly spiritual discipline.

3. Smoking is an addiction that can be stopped by your determination to obey the Holy Spirit all the time.

4. Read the whole bible with the determination to know more about the LORD you surrender your life to.

5. When the push to smoke comes then pick up your cell phone to talk to a servant of GOD about it.

6. Stay away from your old friends and always chat with good Christians who can help you.

7. Fasting and prayer is a strong spiritual exercise that yields miracle. Denying yourself a stick of cigar is fasting, then do not joke with your sincere prayers to the LORD and you will surely have your deliverance.

Smoking is a sin because it is a wrong concept and not beneficial to you and your neighbors. It separates you from the presence of GOD and exposes you to demonic influences. Tobacco and other smoking substances cause cancer and premature death which are not GOD’s plan for your life.

Christian Wealth: How to Unlock Spiritual and Financial Abundance

Posted by Sep 5, 2023 Holy Word, Youths Leave a Comment
Christian Wealth: How to Unlock Spiritual and Financial Abundance

Christian wealth means abundance of both physical and spiritual assets for you and the benefit of your neighbors. In today’s fast-paced and materialistic world, the pursuit of wealth often takes center stage without considering godliness.

In today’s message, I will delve deep into the spiritual principles and practical strategies that can propel you towards financial prosperity while staying true to the Christ-like lifestyle.

I was once poor but now by the special grace of the LORD I am wealthy. So, through insightful teachings, real-life examples, and biblical wisdom, I will teach you how to break free from limiting beliefs, embrace a mindset of abundance, and attract divine favor in your financial endeavors.

Biblical Concept of Abundance

The Bible teaches that God is the ultimate source of all abundance and blessings. It is through His grace and favor that you can experience true wealth in all areas of your lives, including your finances.

However, it’s important to note that abundance in Christianity is not solely defined by material possessions or wealth. It encompasses a holistic approach to life, including spiritual, emotional, and relational richness.

For example; Isaac was very rich during the time of famine because he had a smooth relationship with the LORD.

“Then Isaac sowed in that land, and reaped in the same year a hundredfold; and the LORD blessed him.” (Genesis 26:12)

The Importance of Aligning Spiritual and Financial Goals

Your faith should not be separate from your finances but should guide and inform your financial decisions.

When your spiritual and financial goals are in harmony through the counsel of the Holy Spirit, you can experience a deeper sense of purpose and fulfilment in your pursuit of the Christian wealth.

Aligning your spiritual and financial goals begins with:

1. Seeking God’s guidance and wisdom through your personal fellowship and not from false prophets and pastors out there.

2. Pray and meditate daily; you will be able to discern His will for your life and finances.

3. Surrender your desires to the LORD and allow Him to direct your paths.

4. When you prioritize God’s kingdom and seek to honor Him with your finances, then you will experience His favor and blessings.

“But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.” (Matthew 6:33)

Two Major Biblical Principles for Christian Wealth Creation

1. Stewardship

In the Bible, you are called to be faithful stewards of the resources God has entrusted to you. This means being responsible and wise with our finances, making intentional choices that align with God’s values.

By stewarding your resources well, you can multiply what you have been given and experience an increase in your financial blessings. Read the book of Matthew chapter 25 verse 15 to 28.

2. Sowing and Reaping

This principle teaches you that when you sow generously into evangelism of the Gospel and the needs of others, you will reap a harvest of blessings.

By giving generously, you demonstrate your trust in God’s provision and open the door for the LORD to pour out His abundance upon you.

5 Steps to Unlock Spiritual and Financial Abundance

Unlocking spiritual and financial abundance requires a deliberate and intentional approach. It involves aligning your thoughts, beliefs, and actions with God’s principles for Christian wealth creation.

Here are some practical steps to help you unlock the blessings of both spiritual and material wealth:

1. Renew your mindset

Begin by renewing your mindset and embracing a belief in God’s abundance. Replace limiting beliefs with thoughts of abundance and gratitude. Trust that God wants to bless you abundantly and that He will provide for all your needs.

2. Seek God’s guidance

Make prayer a priority in your financial decisions. Seek God’s wisdom and guidance in every aspect of your financial life, from earning and saving to investing and giving. Trust that He will direct your steps and lead you towards your Christian wealth.

3. Practice wise stewardship

Be a good steward of the resources God has given you. Budget wisely, live within your means, and avoid unnecessary debt. Make intentional choices that align with God’s values and prioritize His kingdom in your financial decisions.

4. Give generously

Cultivate a spirit of generosity and give generously to God’s work and the needs of others. Recognize that giving is a spiritual act that opens the door for God’s blessings to flow into your life. Trust that as you give, you will reap a harvest of abundance.

5. Invest wisely

Seek opportunities for spiritual and financial growth through wise investments. Consult trusted advisors and research investment options that align with your biblical values and goals. Be diligent in your research and prayerful in your decision-making.

Building a Mindset of Abundance and Gratitude

Building a mindset of abundance and gratitude is essential to unlocking spiritual and financial abundance. Your thoughts and beliefs shape your reality, so it’s important to cultivate a positive and grateful mindset.

Some practical tips to help you build a mindset of abundance include:

1. Practice gratitude:

Take time each day to express gratitude for the blessings in your life. Focus on the abundance you already have, whether it’s your health, relationships, or material possessions. Cultivating an attitude of gratitude will attract more blessings into your life.

2. Visualize your goals

Create a clear vision of the abundance you desire to experience in your life. Visualize yourself achieving your financial goals and living a life of abundance. This will help you stay focused and motivated on your journey towards wealth.

3. Affirmations

Use positive affirmations to reprogram your subconscious mind. Repeat affirmations such as “I am abundant in every area of my life” or “I attract financial blessings effortlessly.” By consistently affirming these positive statements, you will begin to shift your mindset towards abundance.

4. Surround yourself with positivity

Surround yourself with positive influences that support your mindset of abundance. Seek out like-minded individuals who share your goals and values. Avoid negativity and limit exposure to media that promotes lack and scarcity.

4 Helpful Tips for Progressive Christian Wealth

Managing money in line with Christian values involves making intentional choices that honor God and align with His principles of holiness.

Some practical tips to help you manage your money in a way that reflects your Christian faith include:

1. Budgeting

Create a budget that reflects your financial goals and aligns with your values. Allocate a portion of your income to giving, saving, and investing, in addition to covering your expenses. By budgeting wisely, you can ensure that your Christian wealth is being used in a way that honors God.

2. Avoid debt

Minimize the use of debt and strive to live within your means. Avoid unnecessary borrowing and prioritize paying off any existing debt. By living debt-free, you can experience financial freedom and avoid the stress that comes with debt.

3. Ethical investing

Consider investing in companies and industries that align with your Christian values. Research ethical investment options that prioritize social responsibility and avoid supporting businesses that engage in practices contrary to the teachings of Jesus Christ.

4. Insurance and emergency fund

Protect your financial well-being by having appropriate insurance coverage and building an emergency fund. This will provide a safety net in times of unexpected expenses or loss of income.

 

Are you ready to embark on this transformative journey? Then embrace the path to Christian wealth and unlock the full abundance God has in store for you. Trust in His provision, seek His guidance, and experience the blessings of living a life of spiritual and financial abundance.